"Pearl" is the only composition the composer has ever written about a person.  He has written works that tell stories about people.  He has dedicated compositions to people.  He has been inspired by people, but never composed anything that represents someone's personality the way "Pearl" does.  Composed in October 2005, this work is the musical painting of the woman who would become the composer's wife almost two years later.

Each musical aspect of the two movements symbolizes a different characteristic of Pearl's personality.  Woven into the music is her quiet, caring, devoted nature, her love for God, her passion for the things she believes in, her wisdom, her logical and analytical approach to life, and her care-free disregard for the pressures that force many other women to be less than true to themselves.  All of these facets of Pearl are portrayed through symbolism, atmosphere, and mood. 

The first movement is best described as "unfolding".  In an unassuming way, the piece unfolds like a delicate blossom confidently moving from bud to full bloom.  This "unfolding" represents the gradual discovery of the depth of a personality as a relationship grows.  The second movement represents the patient waiting associated with allowing a relationship to grow and mature.  The subtle use of silence is symbolic of this patience, and adds richness to the piece.